The feet suffer as a result of aging. However, with a large to-do list, out-of-sight duties like foot care can easily be overlooked. Feet flatten and widen as they age. The fatty padding degrades with time. As a result, the feet’s bones and joints are more susceptible to wear and tear. In elderly persons, even a minor blister can affect mobility, balance, and overall function. Use these five, key senior foot care tips to keep aging feet healthy. Read on for more information.
Obtain Footwear That Is Properly Fitted
Your loved ones should avoid heels higher than 1 inch in height and instead go for close-toe shoes that are comfortable and support their ankle, arch type, and foot width.
Keep An Eye on The Sores
Did you know that the heels of the feet are a popular site for bedsores? Continuously placing their feet on a surface such as a pillow, footstool, or mattress throughout the day can cause pressure and skin irritation, which can lead to tissue breakdown in elderly persons who spend most of their time in bed or a chair. By “floating the heels”, your loved ones can avoid this.
Nail Trimming
Another vital aspect of foot care is to keep toenails clipped. They might cause pain or impede stable walking if they get overgrown. You might trim their nails yourself or look for local nail clinics that specialize in elder foot care. These forms of foot care services may also be provided by podiatrists. Loved ones with foot-related health issues, such as diabetes, may require professional assistance.
If clipping your loved one’s toenails causes them paranoia, discomfort, or fear, consider making it a more spa-like experience. To distract them, you may bathe and massage their feet before trimming them or putting on their favorite TV show or movie.
Feet Should Be Moisturized
Because dry skin is more prone to cracking, peeling, and breaking, moisturizing is critical for preventing open foot sores, particularly in older persons with drier skin. Foot lotions should be administered after your feet have been cleaned and dried thoroughly. This helps to keep skin soft and supple by locking in moisture. After that, use breathable cotton socks to keep your feet warm and comfortable.
Feet Should Be Kept Clean
Depending on whether your elder loved one bathes independently or has assistance, their feet may only be washed once or twice a week. Because good foot hygiene is so important for preventing fungal, viral, and bacterial infections, you may need to clean your feet outside of the bath or shower. Simple foot wipedowns with warm water, soap, and a rag on a regular basis will suffice. It can even help you relax before going to sleep if you practice it at night.
Count on Seaton Chesterfield for Healthy Living
Neuropathy, ingrown toenails, sprains, injuries like fractures, and skin breaks could be the first domino to fall, triggering a cascade of health problems that could gravely harm your loved one’s health and well-being. Family members with healthy feet are more mobile, balanced, and independent. To lower the risk of foot disorders that could have a negative impact on one’s overall health, please visit our beautiful campus at Seaton Chesterfield, where our residents’ healths mature and flourish under our lifestyle counselors’ care.
